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Tuesday, September 30, 2008

"SANTA CRUZ, California, September 29, 2008 (ENS) - A Santa Cruz County jury has awarded $1 million to an organic farm in Santa Cruz whose edible herbs were contaminated by pesticides applied to vegetables on nearby farms.

Lawyers for Jacobs Farm / Del Cabo said today that organophosphate pesticides evaporating after application and then blowing onto the organic herbs made it impossible for Jacobs Farm to sell significant portions of its 2006 and 2007 harvests of sage, rosemary and dill.

While there are rules in place to control pesticide drift from aerial spraying, neither federal nor state governments regulate evaporative drift of pesticides."

"THE Cambodian Center for Study and Development in Agriculture (CEDAC) will export more than 230 tonnes of organic milled rice to Germany and America, Yang Saing Koma, president of CEDAC, told the Post on Thursday.

The shipments would include 200 tonnes to Germany for Rickmers Rice in November and another 30 tonnes to America for the Lotus Food Co early next year.

"We now have more than 600 tonnes of organic milled rice to sell locally and to export to Germany and the United States," Yang Saing Koma Koma said.

This year, CEDAC plans to buy about 2,000 tonnes of organic paddy rice, up from 1,200 tonnes it bought last year."

Sunday, September 28, 2008

"As much as Paul Newman, who died today, was known for his acting, he also had a large impact on the food industry.

He founded Newman's Own Foods in 1982 with a neighbor, and since then all proceeds have gone toward charity. To date, Paul Newman and the Newman's Own Foundation have donated more than $250 million to charities worldwide.

His food proceeds go to good causes and many products are good for you as well."

Saturday, September 27, 2008

"Industry reports show consistent growth in organic food and beverages and Pacific® Natural Foods is responding to this high demand for organic beverages by converting its entire all-natural non-dairy Almond Beverage line to organic, becoming the only brand in the marketplace with a full line of organic non-dairy almond beverages.

The complete line includes: Organic Almond Original, Organic Almond Vanilla, Organic Almond Unsweetened Original and Organic Almond Unsweetened Vanilla in 32oz aseptic containers; and Organic Almond Chocolate and Organic Almond Vanilla in 8 oz. four packs. The suggested retail prices for the 8 oz. four packs are $3.49-$3.99 and the 32 oz. beverages are priced at $2.49-$2.99.

Kevin Tisdale, director of marketing at Pacific Natural Foods, said the new Organic Almond Beverages are a natural progression for the company – a leading manufacturer of non-dairy, alternative beverages."

"WASHINGTON—The Bush administration has abruptly halted a government program that tests the levels of pesticides in fruits, vegetables and field crops, arguing that the $8 million-a-year program is too expensive—a decision critics say could make it harder to protect consumers from chemicals in their food.

Data from the 18-year-old Agricultural Chemical Usage Program administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture were collected until this year, and the Environmental Protection Agency used the data to set safe levels of pesticides in food.

The information was also widely used by university and food industry researchers, including a University of Illinois program to help farmers reduce the amount of pesticides they use."

Thursday, September 25, 2008

"Sustainable and organic agriculture is at the very root of our philosophy: Planet to Food. Food to People. People to Planet. We believe that healthy soils and healthy farms are the foundation for healthy foods, which help make healthy people! Therefore, we’re proud to support the next generation of farmers.

Through our Sustainable Agriculture Scholarship program, we will award $50,000 in scholarship assistance each year to some very deserving students.

We are currently accepting applications for the 2009/2010 school year. Please click here for eligibility guidelines and the application."

"CLIF(R) GreenNotes(TM), a powerful collaboration of musical acts and environmental action from the maker of the all-natural and organic CLIF(R) BAR energy bar, celebrates its fourth year with five new artists, a benefit album and musically inspired clean-up events.

CLIF GreenNotes (www.clifgreennotes.com), which helps musicians reduce the environmental impact of their tours and engages music fans to protectthe planet as well, today introduced the five new, emerging artists participating in the program:

"Entitled "Organic Agriculture and Food Security in Africa", the study demonstrates that organic agriculture can be equal or better for food security than most conventional systems and is more likely to be sustainable in the longer term, as it builds up levels of natural, human, social, financial and physical capital in farming communities. It also favours the use of low carbon footprint production methods and local resources.

The UNEP-UNCTAD Capacity Building Task Force on Trade, Environment and Development (CBTF) is one of two international partnerships through which UNCTAD conducts its work on organic agriculture as a trade and sustainable development opportunity for developing countries. The other partnership is the UNCTAD-FAO-IFOAM International Task Force on Harmonization and Equivalence in Organic Agriculture (ITF)."

"St. Louis, MO (PRWEB) September 25, 2008 -- Launched just this past June, Better Life green cleaning products (http://www.cleanhappens.com) are rapidly building a loyal following among green-conscious consumers and major retailers, including Whole Foods Markets, http://www.delight.com and http://www.drugstore.com.

Created by lifelong friends, Tim Barklage, a marketing specialist and Kevin Tibbs, a formulation chemist, Better Life cleaners are high-performance, all-natural green cleaners that are pioneering in the 'green' category. "We didn't just jump on the bandwagon," says Tibbs. "Everything about Better Life has been carefully thought out - from product formulation, natural ingredient profiles, biodegradability, short and long-term environmental impact, and even eco-friendly packaging." Tibbs also mentions, "We really believe Better Life raises the bar in green clean while minimizing planetary impact."

The grassroots popularity of Better Life products is the result of its personality as much as performance. "What it says about you is as important as what it does for you," says Barklage. With brightly colored packaging and whimsical names, like 'I Can See Clearly, WOW!' glass cleaner and '2 a.m. Miracle' nursery cleaner, Better Life products look markedly different than other green cleaners."

"O Organics, one of the country's largest organic brands by retail sales, announced today the launch of O Organics Supplements, the mainstream grocery retail industry's most comprehensive line of USDA certified organic supplements. Featuring popular supplements including Vitamin C, Calcium and St. John's Wort, the 12 SKU line brings additional depth to O Organics' extensive product portfolio of affordable, high quality organic offerings. Available in Safeway supermarkets beginning today, O Organics Supplements will be rolling out across additional retailers nationwide during 2009.

The Supplements line represents the latest step in the evolution of the O Organics brand, growing from an initial launch of 30 products in 2005 to a multi-category lifestyle solution of over 300 USDA certified organic products with offerings in every aisle of the supermarket. Supported by a multi-million dollar consumer marketing campaign to drive traffic to its retailers, O Organics offers supermarket chains and food service organizations a complete and proven solution to quickly and easily implement a comprehensive organic strategy across their organizations."

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

"It’s no secret that food prices worldwide have risen dramatically over the past two years pushed up partly by the rising cost of oil.

However, organically grown foods costs have changed comparatively less than many “commercially” grown/manufactured foods. As a result consumers are reaping the benefits of buying organic, generally said to be tops for taste, texture and nutrition and containing more nutrients and anti-oxidants whilst avoiding preservatives, chemicals and additives.

What’s more consumers increasingly want to know where food comes from, how it’s grown and what it contains with a growing global trend in first world countries for grocery shoppers to buy a blend of non organic and organic products."

"PRESCOTT - Casey Gustowarow and Daniel Bowman Simon want the next president of the United States to plow the White House lawn and plant organic crops.

"If the president would plant crops on the White House lawn, that would set an example for the rest of the country to follow," Gustowarow said.

The two 20-somethings left New York City Aug. 15 in a modified mini school bus called the WhoFarmMobile. They are crisscrossing the country to educate people about the benefits of homegrown food and to collect signatures on a petition urging the next president to plant crops and feed hungry Americans."

"Organic food production and grow your own food initiatives have created a great deal of interest over the past few months. It’s difficult to say who should get the credit for all the “Organic Action” either way this rolling stone is certainly gathering momentum and its share of organic matter too.

According to the experts at the Bord Bia's national organic conference in Waterford this week, the sale of organic foods in Ireland is now worth 104 million Euro this is an 82 per cent rise since 2006."

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

"MANSFIELD, Mass. — On a day when all eyes focused on Willie Nelson, Neil Young and their Farm Aid brethren, a shy farmer from Brunswick reluctantly stole a small sliver of spotlight.

At a press briefing prior to the first Farm Aid concert in New England on Saturday, Brenna Chase found herself seated somewhat uncomfortably alongside Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick and just a few chairs down from some of the biggest music stars in the world.

Not that she wasn't thrilled to be there, but Chase, 29, is far more comfortable digging in the dirt, raising animals and selling flowers at farmers' markets in Brunswick.

"I'm a little out of my element," she told an assembled group of media representatives and Farm Aid friends. "I was just feeding hogs this morning. Thank you for making me feel like the work I do is important."

Monday, September 22, 2008

"Delhi, India, September 22, 2008 --(PR.com)-- According to their new research report, “South Korean Food and Drinks Market: Emerging Opportunities”, the South Korean organic food market, including fresh produce, field crops and processed organic foods, has shown strong growth in the past few years, mainly driven by rising per capita income and growing health awareness, and is forecasted to continue to grow in future.

Food consumption trends indicate that South Koreans are moving away from their traditional diet towards a more western style. They are opting for high value and quality food products as they are becoming more health conscious and now prefer food with an organic label on it."

"Boise, Idaho (PRWEB) September 22, 2008 -- earthpure organics™ signs the declaration of sustainability with The Food Trade Sustainability Leadership Association. Joining other prominent organic organizations, earthpure organics™ supports the FTSLA vision of conducting businesses in a way that meets the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. The Food Trade Sustainability Leadership Association has created an eleven-point action plan that has been vetted with hundreds of organic growers, distributors, processors, retailers, and certifiers at many conferences across the country. The aim of the plan is to promote education and action toward sustainable business practices in the organic food trade. Companies who sign the pledge commit to transparency around their practices in key areas of business.

In full support of the vision and the FTSLA plan, earthpure organics™ continually strives for progressive and sustainable business practice improvements -- with a strong focus on a low carbon distribution of products, alternative energy resources, quality organic methods and SOPs, sustainable packaging options, and consumer education programs, earthpure organics™ is dedicated to growing a business that does make a difference."

"GREENFIELD, Mass., Sept 22, 2008 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- GREENFIELD, Mass., Sept. 22 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Organic Trade Association (OTA) has appointed a new executive director. Christine Bushway today became the third executive director in the association's 23-year history. OTA is the membership-based business association for the organic industry in North America with a mission to promote and protect the growth of organic trade, to benefit the environment, farmers the public and the economy."

Sunday, September 21, 2008

"Considered one of the most environmentally friendly cities in the world, San Francisco and its residents are no strangers to hugging trees and letting yellow mellow. So why have its hotels taken so long to catch on? It's a densely populated city with gobs of tourists and conventioneers, which means there are a large number of hotels (about 215 in all). There are standard chains and high-end luxury hotels; there are flea bags and hostels. And yet, there are only a handful of eco-hotels.

The newest—and greenest—is the Orchard Garden Hotel, which was opened in November 2006 by the folks who run its sister property down the street, the Orchard Hotel (equally pleasant, not as green). The Orchard Garden is the only LEED-certified hotel in California and was the third to be named as such in the United States; currently, there are only five LEED-certified hotels in the world."

But somewhere along the way the country's largest organic and natural foods supermarket chain also managed to earn the nickname "Whole Paycheck."

Now as the average supermarket shopper becomes increasingly focused on trimming the grocery bill, the company is trying to counter its pricey reputation with the "Whole Deal," a campaign to change the company's image through in-store "value tours" and money-saving coupons."

"Ian's, a leading manufacturer of all-natural and organic foods for kids, today announced that it has acquired products manufactured under the California-based Healthy Handfuls brand. Healthy Handfuls is a maker of animal-shaped USDA certified organic snack foods for kids on the go. Financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.

The addition of Healthy Handfuls snack boxes and pouches expands Ian's portfolio of all-natural and organic meal and snack offerings for families. As is the case with all of the products sold under the Ian's brand, Healthy Handfuls are also made with the highest-quality natural and organic ingredients and do not contain hydrogenated oils, artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.

"Ian's is thrilled to extend our successful product line with the acquisition of Healthy Handfuls," said Terence Dalton, COO and General Manager for Ian's. "The addition of Healthy Handfuls to the Ian's brand will allow Ian's to offer busy parents more organic and nutritious snack options that their kids will love."

Friday, September 19, 2008

"Organic Alliance, Inc., announced today that Chef Stephen Crellin has joined the company's Advisory Board. Chef Crellin graduated from the College of Crafts and Catering in 1975. He then did his apprenticeship in Switzerland. After his apprenticeship he came back to Liverpool where he enjoyed seven years of private service as chef to members of Britain's Royal Family, cooking for Royalty and peerage from around the world. His international background includes duty in England, Switzerland, Bermuda and the United States. He has also gained many years of experience in multi-unit management. Currently he works for Turbo Chef as Regional Sales Director where he flies around the world teaching how to cook with the Turbo Chef."

"MT. FREEDOM, N.J., Sept 18, 2008 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- As debate continues over the safety of bisphenol A (BPA) in plastics and recent reports linking it to diabetes, breast cancer, coronary heart disease and more, parents are concerned about exposing their children to the chemical ingredient in baby bottles, sippy-cups, and other drink packaging. The good news is that First Juice(R) offers parents a safe and healthy juice option. First Juice has always been packaged in BPA and Phthalate-free containers that have been tested and approved by independent laboratories with expertise in BPA analysis. With First Juice, parents can be assured that they are serving their children the very best.

First Juice organic fruit and vegetable juice beverage is the first juice for toddlers that is significantly lower in sugar and calories than traditional juice offerings, with nothing artificial. It also comes in a convenient, reusable, spill-proof sippy-top container. From its BPA-free packaging, to its organic and reduced sugar attributes, to its nutritional value and convenience -- First Juice offers everything a parent could want in a juice for their child."

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

I would really appreciate it if you could take the time to vote on the poll to the top right of this page. This issue has really bothered me for some time and I could never figure out whether or not people were interested in more vegetarian articles or if a lot of organic meat eaters read this blog. Please vote! You have until November 1!

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

"NaturalNews) The 2008 Raw Spirit Festival concluded yesterday, wrapping up the third annual gathering of raw foods enthusiasts, vendors, authors and speakers. As always, it served as a launching pad for some of the most amazing and innovative products you'll find in the entire natural products industry. In this series of review articles, I reveal the most exciting new raw foods, raw supplements and raw skin care products that have just hit the market.

This is a multi-part article series, so continue checking the NaturalNews.com home page this week to read them all. Also, at the end of this article, I'll give you a link to a joyous, energetic audio recording of The Laughing Guru Yogi Ramesh (www.UniversalYoga.org), which will have you rolling with laughter and feeling really inspired!"

Monday, September 15, 2008

"LOUISVILLE, CO, Sep 15, 2008 (MARKET WIRE via COMTEX) -- Eldorado Artesian Springs, Inc. today announced that it shipped its first order of Organic Vitamin Charged Spring Water outside of the Rocky Mountain Region -- a major milestone in the Company's plans to aggressively expand distribution throughout the Western and Southwestern United States.Under the direction of its new partner Organic Food Brokers, Eldorado's line of Organic Vitamin Charged Spring Water is now being distributed throughout northern California by United Natural Foods, Inc., the nation's largest natural foods distributor. The northern California distribution center is the largest on the West Coast.Organic Food Brokers, which represents many leading organic brands, is spearheading a program to aggressively expand distribution and is building a broker network expected to include major players such as New Frontier Marketing and Sunshine Specialties. The brokerage team expects shelf placement in both mainstream and independent grocers along the west coast, including placement in four regions of the nation's premier natural and health food retailer."

"FLORHAM PARK, N.J., Sept. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Gerber Products Company, now part of the Nestle Infant Nutrition portfolio, is expanding its line of premium baby foods by introducing three new dinner purees with DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and one new Organic dinner puree. Gerber is also relaunching its ORGANIC Cereal varieties, providing parents even more Organic options for their babies. The expansion of its fortified and organic product line is part of Gerber's commitment to advancing the benefits infant food can offer. The items include:

-- Dinner Purees with DHA: Garden Vegetables with Whole Wheat Pasta, Vegetable Risotto with Cheese, and Macaroni and Cheese with Vegetables all provide the following per serving: 18 milligrams of DHA, a full serving of vegetables, and 2-3 grams of protein."

"Sherry Conrad and her family want to reduce their carbon footprint. They use reusable shopping bags and buy organic clothes and organic food. When it was time to get a new computer, Conrad opted for Dell’s new eco-friendly desktop called the Studio Hybrid.

“It’s made from recycled parts. It uses a whole lot less energy, which helps everybody nowadays,” said Conrad, a stay-at-home mom from Conway, Ark.

Computer manufacturers, chip makers and software companies are developing products for environmentally conscious consumers. While some tech companies are developing more energy-efficient product lines, others are releasing software to make existing computers consume less. And electronics manufacturers are expanding ways to make new computers out of recycled materials, as well as encourage customers to recycle old machines. Consumers may pay a slight premium for some eco-friendly electronics, but many prices will be comparable with traditional offerings."

Friday, September 12, 2008

"Standards Australia has released for public comment a draft Australian Standard covering organic food.

The organic food industry says the standards will eventually mean consumers can confident that the organic products they choose are truly organic as the development of the Australian Standard for the organic and biodynamic industry nears completion.

The standard has been developed by a committee of key stakeholders and stipulates requirements for the production, preparation, transportation, marketing and labelling of organic and biodynamic products. It places particular emphasis on farming and management practices which promote the use of renewable resources and conservation of soil, water and energy resources.

Unprocessed products from plants, animals and fungi such as fruit, vegetables, meat, poultry, mushroom and fibres, as well as processed products such as processed food, cosmetics and skincare products which are labelled ‘organic’ are covered in the draft Standard.

Colin Blair, deputy CEO of Standards Australia, said the draft establishes minimum requirements to be met by growers and manufacturers for products that can be labelled ‘organic’ or ‘biodynamic’, creating a level playing field for growers, retailers and consumers. “At the moment, consumers looking to buy organic products have no uniform guarantee of quality and integrity. At the same time, legitimate organic farmers have no protection against the minority of growers misinterpreting or falsely claiming to follow organic agricultural practices,” Blair said."

"One cannot find fresh organic fruit and vegetables on the market in Macedonia although fields for this type of production have doubled in the last two years.

Those who are well acquainted with the situation claim that the high price of organic food and small interest in it on the Macedonian market are the main reasons why these products, which are produced without chemicals, mainly end up on foreign markets for now."

Thursday, September 11, 2008

"First, it was the world's three biggest fast food companies; now Whole Foods Market has promised the Coalition of Immokalee Workers to help raise pay and improve working conditions for tomato harvesters.

The Texas-based natural foods giant agreed Tuesday to pay a penny and a half more per pound for Florida tomatoes and to establish higher labor standards for the workers who pick them.

Whole Foods is the first grocery chain to join Burger King, McDonald's and Yum Brands (owner of Taco Bell and KFC, among other chains), in signing the agreement with the 4,000-plus-member farmworker organization.

Coalition member Greg Asbed has said the raise means workers' yearly wages could rise from about $10,000 to between $16,000 and $17,000. Although there are no exact numbers, there are likely between 10,000 and 30,000 migrant farmworkers in Florida, according to government estimates. Southwest Florida accounts for about a third of the state's tomato crop, worth roughly $619 million last year, said Reggie Brown, vice president of the Florida Tomato Growers Exchange, a cooperative group, to which 90 percent of the state's growers belong."

Rick Sample and James Urioste, partners in a San Clemente company that markets organic skin-care products, are finding more consumers turning to their product, Soleo.

We asked Sample about it.

Q. Why organic?

A.It allows a person to have a choice to not put chemicals on their body. Anything you put on your skin is going to soak into your body.

Q. Will people pay more for it?

A.Once they understand why they wouldn't want to put a chemical sunscreen on their body and why they would want a clean alternative … price really isn't a barrier. You don't have to convince people to use sunscreens anymore. Everybody is aware of what UV rays do. Sunscreen use is mainstream. The consumer is becoming more aware. The Internet is such a great equalizer. Two years ago, you saw nothing organic in Albertsons. Now there's an organic food section at Albertsons."

"(NaturalNews) After having their organic almond businesses devastated by the USDA's bizarre decision requiring mandatory chemical fumigation of almonds, the almond industry is fighting back. Fifteen American almond growers have filed a lawsuit against the USDA in an attempt to repeal the requirements that all almonds grown in California be fumigated or pasteurized. (Virtually all almonds sold in the United States are grown in California.)

Since the USDA's ruling in 2007, organic almond growers in California have been economically devastated by the mandatory fumigation of almonds. Because USDA rules don't apply to almonds being imported from other countries, however, the industry has seen a huge shift away from U.S. growers and towards almond growers in Spain and other countries. Some American almond farmers have even called the USDA's decision "a plan to destroy the U.S. almond industry and put small organic farmers out of business."

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

"Growing up in the 1960s in a tea-totaling family in rural northern California's Lake County, Bob Blue never dreamed of a winemaking career. But while serving Uncle Sam in Germany, Europe's terrific wine, beer and food traditions struck a chord.

Back home, participation in the University of California-Davis' winemaking program launched his grape-growing journey. Today, Blue's abiding passion for the mysteries and joys of the grape continues as winemaker at Bonterra Vineyards, a leading producer of wines made from organically grown grapes.

"Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) September 10, 2008 -- The World's First Raw Organic "Cooking Show" TV Infomercial is airing Nationwide on TV on September 19 2008 in Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Oakland and San Jose. Celebrity Raw Organic Chef Bryan Au will teach 4 of his most popular innovative new raw organic recipes from his best selling books RAW IN TEN MINUTES and the new full color 2nd Edition titled RAW FOOD IN TEN MINUTES in the TV Show. There is a lot of humor, fun and surprises for viewers as Chef Bryan Au will dazzle viewers with his totally new UNDER 10 Minute Raw Organic Cuisine Recipes. He has even invented a new term Eco Green Cuisine because his recipes literally helps to reverse Global Warming while protecting your health, community, environment and helps to save the Planet. Many of his recipes are even under 5 minutes or 2 minutes and are ready to serve, so he is even faster than a Microwave or Rachael Ray! People all love the recipes because they are healthy, organic, fast, fun and easy. They literally look and taste like everyone's favorite comfort and junk foods but are now raw all natural and the most healthy in the world. Because it is raw all the vitamins, minerals and enzymes are intact for optimal health, benefits, lose all the weight or gain muscles, all natural anti-aging, get more energy and can prevent or reverse many modern day conditions while being the most delicious new cuisine in the World. This will quickly become the NEXT MAJOR FOOD TREND, DIET, ECO GREEN Lifestyle and more. We CAN all save the Planet in the most fun, fashionable and delicious ways possible!"

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

"BERKELEY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--CLIF Kid™ today announced that its new Organic ZBaR Spooky S’mores flavor is now available for a limited time throughout the Halloween season. Spooky S’mores recreates the classic camp fire snack using organic and all-natural ingredients in a baked whole grain bar with 12 vitamins and minerals specific for kids’ growing and active bodies.

CLIF Kid was the first national brand to create a right-sized energy snack bar for kids with the right nutritional blend for their growing bodies. CLIF Kid Organic ZBaR features a wholesome blend of carbohydrates, protein and fiber, which slows digestion to stabilize energy levels and make kids feel full longer. CLIF Kid Organic ZBaR is USDA-certified organic and contains no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives, no high fructose corn syrup, no trans fat and does not source from genetically-modified organisms."

"People who consume organic food are a carbon-step ahead, according to the Biological Farmers of Australia, which says those eat organic are almost half a tread lighter than their non-organic counterparts.

The BFA's Organic Advantage newsletter reports that a German study has considered how appetites affect carbon emissions, finding diets low in meat and dairy are best, with organic alternatives able to significantly reduce chewing up of carbon credits.

According to the BFA, the study also found a conventional (non-organic) carnivorous diet over one year could produce the same amount of greenhouse gases as driving a mid-sized car over a distance of 4758km."

"WASHINGTON, Sep 08, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Organic To GoTM America's first organic fast-casual cafe chain to be certified organic by the USDA, launches a fresh, seasonal fall and winter catering menu today, bringing modern, responsible catering options to Washington, California and the country's most politically astute city, Washington, DC. Created for groups of five to 1,000, the full service catering menu offers 30 delicious new options to Organic To Go's popular mainstays, all made without harmful additives, antibiotics, chemicals, pesticides, growth hormones or genetic modification.

"At Organic To Go we dispel the notion that eating 'organic' means having to sacrifice our time-tested favorite dishes; we present fine fresh food and work hard to provide excellent service to put Customers First on every occasion, from tailgates and election parties to corporate meetings and holiday events," said Jason Brown, Chairman and CEO of Organic To Go. "With 40% of our overall business coming from catering, we see an opportunity to offer our bicoastal markets a change toward wholesome organic catering options at work and at home. Now event planners and hosts can bring fresh, delicious meals to the boardroom and the table, free of harmful chemicals and additives. Our catering menu is made with all natural ingredients from sustainable sources for any size group."

Monday, September 8, 2008

"LONDON (Dow Jones)--Spending on organic goods has fallen by 19% this year to GBP81 million from GBP100 million, the Financial Times reports, citing TNS Worldpanel data.According to the newspaper, the data reveals that sales of organic produce are down 3.8%"

"When deep-pocketed donors write large checks to their alma maters, it's usually for a new building or athletic facility, or maybe financial aid or an endowed faculty chair. But at Bates College, an anonymous graduate has given $2.5 million for a less traditional cause: supporting the college's use of organic, natural, and farm-fresh foods.

The gift, announced last week, ranks among the largest ever received by the Lewiston, Maine, college, and will expand the use of local and organic food on campus. In conjunction with a new energy-efficient dining hall that opened in February, the donation has also sparked a yearlong initiative on sustainable food.

"People often give to support faculty and curriculum and programs, and that's necessary and wonderful," said Bates president Elaine Tuttle Hansen. "But here is a gift that actually supports operations and recognizes that there is a financial cost to doing the right thing, from both a nutritional and an ethical perspective."

"Dancing Rabbit Ecovillage, Rutledge, MO (PRWEB) September 8, 2008 -- Sustainability is the key for the Milkweed Mercantile, a new business running solely on sun and wind power. Sharing everything from artisan bread recipes to the secrets of organic gardening, the Milkweed Mercantile, an Eco General Store, B&B and Organic Café, is housed in an elegant two-story strawbale building. Setting new criteria for businesses calling themselves "green," the Mercantile sells eco-friendly goods, hosts guests in a totally green B&B and presents seminars and retreats for those seeking a more sustainable way of life. (http://milkweedmercantile.com/)

We are not going to join the ranks ofBrimming with handcrafted artisan goods and carefully considered eco wares, the Eco General Store fills a need not met by other "green" emporia. With strict criteria for what can (and cannot) be sold, and the absence of paid advertising, the Mercantile truly subscribes to the business ideal of Triple Bottom Line: People, Planet and Profit. Visitors to the Mercantile, whether in person or online, will be treated to a decidedly unstuffy version of green, where learning and enjoying life are given a high priority."

Friday, September 5, 2008

Some time ago, I was sent a massive box of Sweet Leaf Tea straight from the company to review. Unfortunately, all sorts of things got in the way and I never got the chance to properly review them. Even though it's nearly months later, I definitely wanted to get the word out on these delicious beverages.

Sweet Leaf Tea has a number of organic varieties including the traditional green, raspberry, peach and half & half teas. I was above to try all of the above and I must say I enjoyed all of them thoroughly. Each beverage was sweet without being overwhelming and offered a hearty flavor. Sweet Leaf also have a line of lemonades which greatly quenched my thirst over the summer months.

Available throughout the country, Sweet Leaf will definitely become a new favorite for tea drinkers and organic lovers alike.

Recommended flavor: Peach! I never realized how much I would like it before I gave it try.

"AUSTIN, Texas, Sept 04, 2008 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- Whole Foods Market(R) (WFMI WFMI 17.99, -0.99, -5.2%) , the leading natural and organic foods supermarket, announced that Margaret M. Wittenberg, the Company's Global Vice President for Quality Standards and Public Affairs, has been selected to serve as one of four new members on the Board of Directors for The Organic Center. Based in Boulder, Colorado, The Organic Center is a nonprofit organization that advances peer-reviewed scientific research and information behind the health and environmental benefits of organic food and farming, and communicates those benefits to the public."It's a real honor to be chosen to participate in this important organization," said Wittenberg. "I look forward to working with the rest of the Board to support more research of organic farming and practices and helping to communicate its benefits to the public and policy makers."

"The Soil Association Organic Food Awards 2008, sponsored by Highland Spring, were judged by an expert panel of chefs, restaurateurs, food writers and specialists, alongside names such as Jo Wood and Donna Air. They involved a three day tasting marathon of 900 entries hosted at the Duke of Cambridge in London, the UK's only organically certified pub.

The Soil Association Organic Food Awards, now in their 20th year, showcase the best in quality organic food and drink and highlight the imaginative and successful way in which individuals, and their companies, are contributing to the resurgence in organic, local and seasonal food.

Judging in all categories was by blind tasting and all products were judged on taste, smell, texture and appearance."

Thursday, September 4, 2008

"EBay Inc. today rolled out WorldofGood.com, a new online green marketplace offering products that are made from recycled or natural materials.

The site also allows shoppers to buy products built in developing nations. Thus, eBay said, the site has "a positive impact on people and the planet."

Products and sellers are checked by third parties, such as trust providers Co-op America Foundation Inc. and Aid to Artisans Inc., to make sure that they meet a core set of ethical and environmental standards, eBay said.

The site has a labeling system for each product -- which are all sold for fixed prices -- that will show shoppers the impact of their purchase on economic empowerment, energy conservation and animal species preservation. The label also shows if an item is made of recycled, organic or sustainable materials."

"WINDHAM, NH – Gak’s Snacks, LLC, the Windham, New Hampshire-based maker of organic, ready-to-eat, whole grain cookies and coffee cakes free of common food allergens including peanuts, tree nuts, dairy and eggs, today announced it is changing its company name to HomeFree™, LLC. According to the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN), more than 12 million Americans have food allergies, and 3 million of them are children. HomeFree, the treats you can trust, were created for people with food allergies and for health conscious people looking for a more enjoyable, certified organic, wholesome snacking option.

HomeFree will continue to manufacture the same delicious products at its dedicated baking facility, where it conducts testing on ingredients and random product batches to ensure its ingredients, cookies and coffee cakes are free of common food allergens."

"Cornercopia is the only organic-certified booth at the Church Street Farmers Market, and has the only organic farm plot on the St. Paul campus.

Berries, sweet corn, eggplant, lettuce and tomatoes only begin to describe the colorful array of produce available at the Church Street Farmers Market.

Now in its fourth year, the market features seven unique vendors with local offerings.

Among them is Cornercopia , the only stand to be USDA certified organic, offering items from the St. Paul campus’ organic farm maintained by students in the College of Food, Agriculture and Natural Resource Sciences.

Obtaining the USDA organic seal, which became official for Cornercopia only two weeks ago, is no easy feat, Student Program Coordinator Courtney Tchida explained.

“We had to keep records of the seeds we used, where they were from, the kind of pots we used and had our land inspected through the transition years of 2005-07,” she said."

Perfection Fresh is the only producer of Broccolini® baby broccoli in Australia.

The products, branded to Perfection Fresh, will carry a Woolworths Organics label and the "certified organic" bud logo of certifier, Biological Farmers of Australia to authenticate certification.

"Our market research indicates consumers are increasingly seeking organic food choices and are more interested than ever in healthy living thanks to national campaigns like ‘Go for 2 & 5’," Carnemolla says."

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

The California Association of California Pest Control Advisers (CAPCA) and the Organic Fertilizer Association of California (OFAC) will present a seminar on fertilizer materials acceptable for certified organic production on Wednesday, December 10, 2008 in Salinas. The all day seminar will be held at the Monterey County Farm Advisers’ office building and feature speakers on soil management and the role of fertilizer products in certified organic production.

The program is aimed at crop consultants, organic fertilizer retailers and producers, and organic growers. CEU hours will be offered for PCAs and CCAs. Subjects to be covered include: Certified Organic Farming and Fertilizer; Soil Fertility Management for Organic Farming; Use of Compost in Organic Systems; The Role of Humic Acid; plus several other relevant presentations. “The goal of this seminar is to present practical information that will allow organic producers to understand the role of soil fertility or acceptable fertilizer materials in organic production”, said Doug Graham, Chairman of OFAC.

Registration material will be available in early November for the seminar. More information is available at www.capca.com or www.organicfertilizerassociation.org or by contacting Steve Beckley at (916) 539-4107 or steve@sbeckley.net."

“A perfect drink. It is a beautiful pink colour and the flavours are a perfect mix of fruits.”

HiPP have been making organic baby foods for more than 50 years and the range has been available in the UK since 1995. Their products offer the reassurance of baby food that is "pure and uncontaminated".

HiPP is the largest processor of organic raw materials worldwide. They currently recycle 97 per cent of waste and strive towards using only renewable sources of energy in their production methods."

SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In two short years, healthy vending trailblazer YoNaturals Inc. is well on its way to making healthy vending a part of our daily life. In the last few years, the previously unregulated vending industry has come under immense scrutiny by school boards and government agencies. Many are blaming the profit-hungry junk food vendors for undermining our nation’s health where it hurts us the most: our impressionable youth.

Based in San Diego, California, YoNaturals has paved the way for health food vending to rock the foundation of junk food companies in our schools, and America is taking notice. The immensity of the company’s distribution system is unparalleled in the natural and organic vending industry, and it just keeps growing. YoNaturals appointed 45 new distributors in 2008, exceeding already the 35 appointed in 2007. The company expects to have over 120 distributors in over 160 U.S. cities by the end of the year.

“Never has this country been so ready for a change. People are horrified as they watch America’s youth heading for disaster during what should be the best years of their life,” says CEO Mark Trotter. “People are beginning to wonder how our government and our schools let this happen in the first place. Well, we can’t change the past, but we can definitely change the future.”

"Researchers have discovered how salmonella and E.coli germs - more commonly associated with chicken and bovine products - can spread to salad and vegetable leaves.

A salmonella outbreak in the UK last year was traced back to imported basil while an E.coli outbreak in America in 2006 was linked back to pre-packed baby spinach.

Professor Gadi Frankel, from Imperial College, said consumers needed to be aware of the risk of contaminated salad to avoid potential food poisoning.

"In their efforts to eat healthily, people are eating more salad products, choosing to buy organic brands and preferring the ease of 'pre-washed' bagged salads from supermarkets, than ever before," he said.

"All of these factors, together with the globalisation of the food market, mean that cases of salmonella and E.coli poisoning caused by salads are likely to rise in the future.

"This is why it's important to get a head start with understanding how contamination occurs now."

Prof Frankel said just because some labels claimed food was pre-washed did not necessarily make it safe to eat."

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

"GOOD news for eco-conscious wine connoisseurs: a little of what you fancy need not cost the Earth, but only if it's organic.

Valentina Niccolucci and colleagues from the University of Siena, Italy, measured the resources used to grow, package and distribute wine made from Sangiovese grapes at two farms in Tuscany 30 kilometres apart. The organic farm used only natural fertilisers and pesticides, and most operations were done by hand, while the other used conventional methods of production. The team worked out the resources needed to support the making of each wine - its "eco-footprint".

A bottle from the organic farm had an eco-footprint of 7.17 square metres, half that of the non-organic wine with a footprint of 13.98 square metres. This is because the mechanised production used more land and non-recycled glass (Agriculture, Ecosystems and Environment, DOI: 10.1016/j.agee.2008.05.015)."

" ORGANIC farmers are being squeezed by the UK economic downturn, which has led to lower demand and reduced prices from retailers, it was claimed yesterday.

The Scottish Organic Producers Association (SOPA), which represents the bulk of organic farmers in Scotland, warned that some of its members are finding it increasingly difficult to stay afloat.

As well as seeing a slackening of demand for meat and dairy products, organic farmers are struggling with soaring oil and grain prices, which have pushed up the cost of production even higher than for conventional farmers, it was claimed. The warning came after a report by market research company TNS published yesterday found that spending on organic food and drinks had dropped as shoppers sought to reduce their grocery bills.

After years of rapid market expansion, driven by a rise in ethical shopping and concerns over the food industry, spending on organic food and drinks fell from a record GBP100m per month earlier this year to GBP81m per month in the most recent four-week period recorded.

There were conflicting reports as to whether the credit crunch had affected consumer spending on organics north of the border, with suggestions that some supermarkets had even witnessed a rise in demands for certain products."

"SYDNEY // Australians are turning in ever increasing numbers to organic food as worried consumers become more aware of the health and environmental benefits of chemical-free fruit and vegetables.

Australia has the biggest area of land devoted to organic farming in the world, about 12 million hectares.

A study by the Biological Farmers of Australia, a non-profit industry group, shows that sales of organic produce have increased by 80 per cent since 2004 and are worth about US$220 million (Dh810m) a year.

“It was quite a pleasant surprise for us,” said Andrew Monk from the Biological Farmers of Australia. “We were expecting the figures for domestic growth to be quite suppressed. What we found was an 80 per cent increase since the last report, which was done four years ago.”

" San Jose, CA (PRWEB) September 2, 2008 -- Candy, once considered a 'value' product, has attained the status of a staple snack across the world. Cultural and demographic factors play a critical role in influencing snacking patterns across various countries. In traditional markets such as United States and Europe, candy is considered an impulse item as well as a popular snack. On the other hand, macroeconomic factors and consumer incomes hold enormous significance in developing countries. The trend towards 'Westernization' is a major factor driving the popularity of chocolates and candies in these countries. China, Mexico, Indonesia and Eastern Europe are some of the markets expected to bustle with loads of activity. The appeal of candy as a low-cost luxury and comfort food is helping prop up sales even in the recession-stained economy and positions the market as the fastest growing impulse sector within the confectionery industry.

Product innovation holds the key to continued success in the marketplace. New products, exotic flavors, novel ingredients, organic/herbal fillings, are expected to boost candy sales across all consumer segments. In addition, attractive and innovative packaging, intense advertising, and effective distribution hold strategic significance in the candy market. Innovative packaging strategies, including use of attractive jars, bags and tubs, family-sized packs, and resealable packaging, are expected to lure customers and contribute to higher product sales. Children and women form the largest consumer base for candy. While kids continue to be a key segment, manufacturers are targeting adults through innovative products such as wine truffles, nicotine gums and caffeine flavored candies."